Donegal International Rally set to attract 70,000 spectators
The Donegal International Rally, a cornerstone of the Irish Tarmac Rally Championship is set to attract more than 70,000 spectators this weekend.
The three-day tarmac rally covering 270km, the only one of its kind in Ireland and the UK, will see more than 200 crews compete over 20 stages.
Derry driver Callum Devine and his co-driver Kerryman Noel O'Sullivan will be hoping to win the major prize for a third year in a row in a field that includes current European Champion Hayden Paddon and former World Junior Champion William Creighton.
Since its inception in 1972, the event has grown into one of the most respected rallies in Europe backed by a tight knit Irish rally community.
Two time winner of the two-wheel drive category Kevin Gallagher of KGP Motorsport in Rathmullan, Co Donegal says it's the busiest time of the year for his company.
It has provided engines for many competitors.
"There's huge variation and such good quality in the stages around the Inishowen Peninsula through to Malin Head, Mamore Gap and then around into the Fanad Peninsula; Fanad Head, Knockalla and then on round to Atlantic Drive and Glen. They're all iconic stages," he said.
Mr Gallagher will compete in the two-wheel drive, class 14 category. This year marks 20 years since he first entered as a competitor in the junior ranks.
"We first competed in 2005, but we haven't competed every year. t's a three-day event - there's a lot more preparation involved than a normal rally to keep your concentration right.
"We live near Knockalla. You learn the stages over the year. The crowds come when there's a good quality entry. It's always very busy. It's very good for the county and it's growing every year," he added.
Those attending the weekend rally are advised to watch from designated safe viewing areas.
Details of road closures across the county can be found at www.donegalcoco.ie/rally
As anticipation builds for the motorsport event, key stakeholders have launched a joint 'Keep the Race in its Place' road safety message.
The campaign supported by Donegal County Council, An Garda Siochana, Donegal Motor Club and local agencies urges all road users to drive with care and responsibility over the rally weekend.
Donegal Motor Club said it is imperative that the road safety message is followed and all road users to drive with care and responsibility over the rally weekend.
Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John G. McLaughlin urged everyone travelling in the area to plan journeys, drive with caution and be mindful of their own and others' safety.
Garda Inspector Sean McDaid said gardai's priority will be public safety as they have set-in place a major operation for the motorsport event.
"All those attending the rally and visiting Donegal over the weekend are asked to comply with Garda directions and to behave with respect and care to other road users.
"Gardai will be out in force throughout the weekend with a robust operation. Dangerous driving or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated," Inspector McDaid said.
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